Justin Bieber splashes into maturity

By: Madeline Mohatt, Executive Editor

The high-pitched scream echoing across the Las Vegas Strip on Friday, March 25 was the result of long awaited, bottled up, anxious excitement.

Through the midst of Ellen DeGeneres’s historic “Bieber Week” special, Canadian singer Justin Bieber first shined light on his 58-day world tour. This announcement was not taken lightly by fans, being his first full-concert tour in three years.

On Friday night, hundreds of Beliebers packed into the MGM Grand Garden Arena with glittered posters and signature tees all that read “Mrs.Bieber,” “number one Belieber,” or something of that variation.

After going through the hassle of security, fans were undoubtedly ready to take their seats. Although, this was the only time they were actually found seated.

From the moment Bieber took stage, to the minute he got off, admirers were stuck debating whether they should record the ensembles, or wave their device’s flashlights to the beat of the songs.

It goes without saying that the artist had the audience’s appeal by the palm of his hands, to include myself… at times.

When Bieber initially emerged through the stage floor — enclosed in a glass box — both suspense and familiarity circled the arena.

He rose slow and still, while the track “Mark My Words” echoed. Then, it was back beneath the stage floor for a quick cliffhanger before returning for his hit single “Where Are Ü Now.”

His dramatic entrance was followed by numerous well-choreographed dances and up-beat instrumental accompaniments.

During his performance of “Company,” Bieber attempted to take his show to new heights by jumping on a trampoline. Although this extravagant gesture may have allured some, I thought it was a bit too Jonas Brother-like and made me question if he was truly singing.

Piggybacking this playful portrayal, the artist hopped down to a slower tempo for an acoustic rendition of “Love Yourself.” While belting, Bieber conquered an antique, red love seat with guitar in hand. Despite the simplicity, it is one of my favorite takeaways from the night.

The artist offered something for all interest groups: upbeat songs, heartfelt melodies and even some throwbacks for the nostalgic listeners.

Bieber brought us back to 2010, when he sang old time favorites such as “Baby,” “Boyfriend” and “As Long As You Love Me.” This definitely would have warmed the heart of my middle school self, but still found a way to tug on my teenage heartstrings.

Throwbacks and acoustic renditions aside, I was a bit disappointed by Bieber’s countless number of abrupt exits and the failure to recite all lyrics to some of my favorite JB songs.

Bieber closed his show with a performance of his chart-topper “Sorry,” in which fake rain poured down on the shirtless singer. This stunt can arguably be interpreted as the baptism of a renewed Bieber.

I went into the arena thinking I was just going to be clapping my way through another pop concert, but left exposed to the rebirth of a mature musical icon.

For any Chicagoan still hesitating the trip out to Rosemont, IL in April, definitely should move forward with their purchase as a night of fun, laughter and excitement are in store.